The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is considering further restrictions for various types of ammunition used in both rifles and handguns. The new restrictions stem from the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968, which among other things restricted “Armor Piercing” ammunition and also set forth exceptions that were allowed. One such restriction banned handgun ammunition which had a composition where the materials were harder than lead.

In what appears to be yet another anti-gun initiative by the Obama administration, the BATFE is now considering reversing previous policy by banning ammunition which was originally designed for rifles but can also be used in certain handguns, such as the Thompson Contender or pistol versions of semi-automatic rifles, by claiming that some such ammunition does not meet the exception standards. At issue now is what changes the BATFE would make in further determining exceptions under the “sporting purposes” exceptions.

As BATFE documents note: “…in developing a narrow sporting purposes test, ammunition in traditional hunting calibers will become regulated.” Translated, common rifle ammunition, including steel-core ammunition, would be banned simply because a handgun happens to be chambered for that caliber – as such handguns have been for many decades.

The BATFE has opened the issue for public comment until December 31st, 2012. That gives us less than a month to have our voices heard in this issue. Take a moment and write to the BATFE using the email address provided below and let them know your concerns as they consider future changes to the “sporting purposes” exceptions to the Gun Control Act of 1968 which very well may result in further restrictions on commonly used ammunition.

IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED!

• Email The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives before December 31st.

• Tell the BATFE that further restrictions are not needed and would be a serious violation of our rights under the Second Amendment.

• Support GRNC!: As we move closer to the national and local legislative sessions, GRNC needs your support to help combat the efforts against your rights as gun owners. Join or renew your membership! http://www.grnc.org/join-grnc/join-grnc-online

It has come to my attention that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is considering further restrictions for various types of ammunition used in both rifles and handguns as they pertain to the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968. I am personally concerned that further restrictions on commonly used ammunition would represent a serious breach of the intended scope of the original limitations set forth under the laws created in the Gun Control Act.

As BATFE documents note: “…in developing a narrow sporting purposes test, ammunition in traditional hunting calibers will become regulated.” Regulated? It would be effectively banned. I will not stand idly by while bureaucrats try to ban common rifle ammunition, including steel-core ammunition, simply because a handgun happens to be chambered for that caliber – as such handguns have been for many decades.